Chapter III, Reading 3

Dakra pressed several helpings on Flindra's plate to ensure she would be leaving well fed.  A hot meal under the ribs did much to stave off the cold.

When Flindra could eat no more she put her plate aside.  Icy immediately made herself at home on her lap.  She patted the kitty as she sipped her cider.  "That was wonderful, Momma.  Thank you."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"You're cooking has always been wonderful," Leudh said as he stacked his plate on top of the one Flindra had set on the hearth.  "Your cooking is wonderful, too, Brehwan," he quickly added as he looked at his wife.

She smiled at him with a hint of mischief in her eyes.  "Who do you think taught me to cook your favorites?"

Leudh glanced at his mother and laughed.

Flindra finished the last of her cider and glanced out the window.  "The sun's almost up.  I guess it's time for me to be on my way," she said in a tiny voice.

Instead of just putting Icy on the floor, she lifted her and handed her to Alek.  "Would you boys take care of Icy and the dogs?"

He nodded as tears touched his eyes.  "Gladly."

She stood.  The others immediately were on their feet.

"I'll go saddle Deru," Leudh offered.  "Boys, why don't you come help me."  The twins followed their father from the cottage without a word.

Dakra was weeping as she handed a pair of saddlebags filled with food to Flindra.  "This is nothing fancy, but it will keep you fed on your journey."

"Thank you, Momma."  She took the bags and draped them over her arm.

Brehwan touched her on her sleeve, which made her turn.  "I know you have to travel light, but I figured this wouldn't be much in the way."  She held out a neatly folded cloth.

Flindra took it and unfolded it.  It was a tiny blanket with embroidery around the edges.  Brehwan had stitched a beautiful wreath of leaves and woody vines around the border.

"It's beautiful," she said in admiration.

"It's for your baby's crib.  I know it's a bit early for such gifts, but I don't know if we'll see each other again so I want you to have it.  The leaves will always remind you of your home."

The embroidery faded from Flindra's sight for her eyes were suddenly clouded with tears.  "Thank you, Brehwan," she sobbed as she embraced her.

The two women clung to each other and wept.  Dakra moved close and put a supportive hand on Flindra's shoulder.  Soon she was pulled into the hug.

Flindra finally sighed and pushed away.  She brushed off her tears with the back of her hand.  "Leudh's probably saddled Deru."

Brehwan nodded in agreement while Dakra wiped her tears on her apron.  "Probably so."

They turned and started for the door.  Just as she had done upstairs, Flindra circled around and looked at the cozy cottage, trying to brand the vision on her memory.

"There has been much love in this home," she remarked.  "That's why it is such a wonderful place."

"A house isn't a home unless there's love," Dakra said.  She slipped Flindra's cloak over her shoulders and fastened it.

"Thank you."

Dakra brushed a lock of hair from Flindra's brow.  "I'm afraid it's time, dear one."

"I know."  She continued out the door.